More of the same...Congressional idiocy and our Money !

A friend  of mine recently shared this gem from a Kentucky congressman...it was in response to the question of why does the US provide foreign aid in these hard times; specifically funding for Mosque preservation ..
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Subject: Responding to your message

September 10, 2010

Mr. L.S.

Louisville, Kentucky 40223

Dear Mr. S.

Thank you for contacting me to express your concerns about U.S. funding for the reconstruction of mosques abroad. I appreciate hearing from you on this important matter. 

As you are likely aware, the U.S. routinely provides foreign aid to nations around the world, and this aid is not contingent on a country's predominant religious affiliation. The U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation supports a wide range of projects to preserve cultural heritage - such as the restoration of historic buildings, assessment and conservation of museum collections, archaeological site preservation, and documentation of indigenous languages - to demonstrate the depth of our nation's respect for the cultural heritage of other countries. In the decade since its creation by Congress, the Fund has contributed less than $26 million to approximately 640 projects in more than 100 countries. 

While I understand your concerns about providing funding for the reconstruction of Islamic mosques and other holy sites, I believe the preservation of cultural heritage and historically important sites around the world is a worthy goal, regardless of the site's religious affiliation, and that we must protect the national security interests of the United States by bolstering diplomacy and development. By taking these steps, we can help prevent conflicts before they start, restore America's image in the international community, and rebuild relations with our friends and allies around the world. These investments, which account for only about one percent of the total federal budget, also build economic prosperity and protect the health and safety of all Americans, while demonstrating our moral values and humanitarian principles. 

Thank you again for contacting me, and please do not hesitate to get in touch with me in the future about any matter of concern. In the meantime, if you would like to learn more about my work in Washington and in Louisville, please visit my website at www.yarmuth.house.gov where you will find the latest news, my weekly schedule, video from hearings, and information about constituent services.  You can also sign up for my e-newsletter to receive periodic updates on important issues and services for your family.

Sincerely,

John Yarmuth
Member of Congress
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How about preserving American culture and money ?  What if the US funded repair to ..oh.. a church or synagogue here in the states?..the ACLU would have a meltdown.  Just another example of an elitist mentality ...they think we do not see or care what is done with our money ! Foreign aid dollars when the US is wounded and bloody ?  Ask the Chinese!


David